INDOT/NHTSA: Changing Your Clocks Means Changing Your Driving Habits

POSTED BY REGION NEWS TEAM ON NOVEMBER 2, 2016 | 6:25 PM IN LOCAL NEWS, REGION NEWS

The first weekend in November is almost here and that means spending the weekend raking leaves and this Sunday, setting our clocks back one-hour as Daylight Saving Time ends.

INDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds Hoosiers that sun glare and darkness will now occur during different parts of your familiar driving or walking routine, so drivers and pedestrians should exercise greater caution.  Pedestrians are also being urged to make yourself more visible and to give traffic an extra look before crossing the street.

INDOT and NHTSA offer these tips and urge you to give them a look and share them with your loved ones:

Motorists

• Slow down. During the evening hours, you need more time to see a pedestrian in your path.
• Don’t drive distracted or impaired. Any behavior that slows your reaction time, increases the risk of a crash.
• Keep in mind that pedestrians who are wearing headphones, hats or earmuffs may not hear your vehicle as it approaches.
• Keep your windshield, windows, and mirrors clean.
• Make sure your defrosters and windshield wipers are working properly and that washer fluid is replaced as needed.

Pedestrians

• Carry a flashlight or attach reflective materials - such as fluorescent tape - to clothing, backpacks, purses, and briefcases. These materials reflect light from headlights back to drivers, making it easier to see you.
• Don’t depend on the traffic signal to protect you. Motorists may be distracted, especially when adjusting to the nighttime travel environment.
• Avoid jaywalking and crossing between parked vehicles. Crosswalks offer a safer alternative.
• Walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If you must walk on the street, face traffic.
• When crossing the street, look left-right-left for cars from the curb.
• Do not cross the street if a car is coming, and always use a crosswalk if available.
• Watch out for cars at every driveway and intersection.
• Stay completely focused on the road and avoid distractions like smartphones and tablets when walking.